Month of March has gone on record to be the hottest for India since 1901. Average monthly temperature for the country was 33.1°C, highest in the last 122 years. It surpassed the earlier record of 33.09°C , established in 2010. Northwest India, including Delhi recorded mean monthly average of 30.73°C, and broke the earlier record of 30.67°C set in March 2004.
Delhi also measured the mean monthly temperature at 32.9 against the monthly mean of 29.6°C, a huge 3.3°C above the normal. From 7th March onward, the national capital recorded above normal temperature persistently till the last day of the month. During the fag end, the mercury was 7-8°C above the average, amounting to severe heat wave conditions in some parts of Delhi/ NCR.
Month of April also started on a hot note. Palam observatory at the airport recorded the 1st day of 40°C and qualified for heat wave conditions. However, base station Safdarjung has yet to breach the mark of 40°C, albeit the day maximum is running 6-7°C above the average levels. Yesterday, most observatories scaled mercury levels of 40°C and above including Meteorological office at Lodhi Road.
Dry weather conditions are likely to prevail and continue till the middle of the month. Pre monsoon activity in terms of thunderstorm and showers is not expected during 1st fortnight of the month. Accumulated heat over this period will sustain above normal temperatures resulting prolonged heat wave spell for the national capital.
Delhiites have to brace up for a hot summer with temperature of >/= 40°C on a regular basis. Moderate breeze may provide marginal comfort today with surface temperature staying below 40°C in few pockets , including Safdarjung. However, tomorrow onwards, the heat is going to build up and the mercury may breach 41°C mark at Safdarjung and Palam on few days during this week....